Naruto:
World Tour
By: Nagi-Oki, The Kabuto no Miko
Disclaimer: Still don't own Naruto. The foreigners and weirdoes they meet is another story.
Chapter 2: Hungry Like the Wolf
The soft whistle of the wind through the trees and constant thumping of her straining heart was all that Hinata could hear as Bindo vanished back into the forest. She trembled looking around the dark forest, it seemed so...forbidding, at night. She clicked on her flashlight looking around as she stepped quietly through the brush.
Hinata told herself, you can do this Hyuuga Hinata. Neji's wrong, you're not a coward! It's ok to be a little scared, just do your best or else the monster will eat the village. She swallowed, no preassure at all...
Not to far from the lost Hyuuga, red eyes watched as she fumbled in the darkness. The rancid stench of it's breath withering the foliage it touched. The long tongue slathered it's teeth as it strained against the excitement of it's beating heart. This one was pure innocence, sweet and timid like a delicate little rabbit. It would enjoy tainting and ruining such purity.
Hinata spun around hearing movement behind her, a part of her was terrified beyond rational thought. She wanted to run, but she had to be sure the beast would follow her. She fought that voice in her head telling her to run and forget the mission. She heard a growl from the bushes behind her.
As she turned, she trembled violently. There stepping out of the foliage was a wolf as big as an ox. It's red eyes focused on the pale eyed beauty, the murderous intent all present and consuming within those orbs. The massive paws pressed towards her, the beast towering over her, taking in the scent of her fear.
Hinata was paralyzed with fear, THIS was the monster? There was no way she could out run it. But something in her told her to run like hell. She turned closing her eyes and running as fast as he legs could propel her. She could have sworn she heard the wolf laughing as it chased after her.
Neji was worried, if anything happened to Hinata it would be on his head. Dammit! Why didn't he stop her and make someone else play bait? Why did she have to go out of her way to prove she wasn't a coward? Neji murmured softly, "(God, it's Neji...If you protect Hinata hime from the monster, I promise I'll...I'll...(sigh)...I'll TRY being a more pleasant person...)"
Maze watched from his vantage point in the trees, he could sense the ninjas getting antsy. They weren't making too much noise so he didn't have to go dispense discipline. He turned hearing Bindo moving in the tree. Bindo spoke, "He took the bait, he's heading here."
Maze turned to the group, "Heads up ninjas, we got company coming."
Hinata ran, ducking between trees, trying to make this chase as tough as possible for Fenris. If it wasn't for her Byakugan she would have gotten lost, she saw the group hiding and was heading straight for them. She ran into the clearing, stopping under the tree Maze hid in to catch her breath.
The wolf stepped into the clearing, casually as if it had all the time in the world to chase Hinata. Upon seeing the sheer mass of muscle, fur, and teeth enter the clearing all thoughts unified in one stunning realization.
"We're gonna need bigger arrows..."
The captain watched from his vantage point, ready to give the signal. He was just waiting for the right moment. Hinata stared up into those blood red eyes, shivering with terror. The rancid stench of the wolf's breath was almost enough to choke the very breath from her, and it was getting closer. It was right on top of her. It opened it's maw displaying the row of sharp teeth, eliciting a soft whimper from Hinata. It lunged forward, mouth agape, looking to snatch up Hinata in one quick snap.
SWOOOSH-
The wolf snapped it's jaws shut in the space previously occupied by Hinata. The captain waved his hand, the ninjas stood taking careful aim and loosing a small volley of arrows. The beast let out an outraged growl as the arrows struck, sinking in deep. Everyone then braced their lines against the trees as the beast began to thrash.
Kiba growled, "There's no way we can hold it for long!"
Iruka called out, "Hold it steady!"
Steel skidded to a stop with the trembling Hinata in his arms by Neji. He set her down, "Help hold the beast tight!" Then he sped off, delivering a whack to Fenris' maw. It was strong enough to hurt the beast but it grabbed it's attention. Now snapping at the speeding figure swatting and smacking it.
Sakura and Ino were straining to hold it's feet with the ropes, even with Iruka and Vulvine's help. The beast was much stronger and it was livid mad. Sakura let out a gasp when she saw Fenris rear up, Sasuke lost his footing and was yanked through the dirt out into the clearing.
"SASUKE-KUN!"
The Uchiha survivor looked up into the deathly eyes of the wolf in time as it's massive paw pinned him to the ground. He grunted trying to get up but the paw was to heavy to lift.
Naruto was about to drop the rope and go help Sasuke when Dagger's hand stopped him, "No! If you let go the wolf'll have more freedom of movement."
Naruto growled, "I can't let that thing kill Sasuke!"
The captain ran out from the brush, swinging his sword at Fenris' face, "C'mon you ugly bastard! Pick on someone more your size!"
Fenris snapped at the captain who easily dodged the wolf's jaws.The wolf snarled then turned to the ninja he pinned. Sasuke swore he could see the thing smiling at him as it ground it's paw into his back, making him groan out in pain. The captain eased off.
Maze watched silently from his spot, "(Crap...we're at a Mexican standoff...)"
The captain stood up to the wolf, waiting for it to make it's next move. He knew he couldn't deliver the final blow. He'd have to get Maze an opening or else they were going to be here all night. He thrust his sword into the ground, then took off his gloves.
Shikamaru raised an eyebrow, "What's he doing?"
Steel grit his teeth, "Something stupid and dangerous. CAPTAIN! Don't do it!"
Fenris snarled and lunged forward, the captain caught the wolf's jaws, holding it's mouth open with his bare hands. The beast snarled and shook it's head, trying to shake off the captain but the man's resolve was strong. His dilligence in holding the beast paid off when Fenris lifted it's paw off Sasuke and slashed at the soldier.
"CAPTAIN!"
Sasuke scrambled to his feet and ran back into the safety of the underbrush. The captain held on as the wolf's claw ripped off the armor plating, casting it aside. Blood soaked into the material of his clothes as he strained to hold the wolf back. Then suddenly the wolf stopped, Maze was in a knealing position beside the captain, his sword drawn and ppointed downwards. Then the wolf's head came loose and fell to the ground along with the hulk of it's body.
Maze got up, "Thank you for the set up captain."
The captain fell to his knees clutching his midsection, "Gettin' too old for this shhiii"
Dagger and Steel were there in a flash, steadying their mentor as the ninjas came out from hiding. Vulvine stepped forward taking a pack from his side, "Let me see the wound captain..."
Maze moved his teacher's arms, the visible wince on his teammate's face told him immediately what had to be done. He stood, "Dagger, go to the village and to the main building let the leaders know what happened. Vulvine, tend to the captain, do all you can for him out here. Steel, you've been grazed on your arm, clean the wound then go back to the ship and fetch us a stretcher."
Hinata gasped hearing Maze's statement, she turned to Steel pulling a small jar of ointment from her jacket, "Please use this Steel-san, I didn't know you were hurt."
Steel blinked then held up a hand, "It's ok kid, only a scratch."
Hinata held out the ointment, he could tell she'd hate herself if she didn't help him in some way. He reluctantly took the jar with a small, "Thanks, but I'll be ok."
Sasuke approached but Maze turned, staring into his dark eyes with his own golden eyes. Sasuke read the intent of those eyes clearly, he gave that look plenty of times to others when they irritated him in one way or another. But the intensity in those golden irises spoke volumes louder than his did.
The captain patted Maze's hip, "Ease off Maze, it wasn't his fault."
The young Uchiha blinked as Maze turned back, was he blaming him for what happened? He uttered a soft, "Thank you..."
The captain gave a pained smile in return, reaching up with his clean hand to mess up Sasuke's hair, "I promised none of you would die on my watch..."
Maze said, "Then move your arms so you won't die on our watch."
Meanwhile back in the Hokage's office, Otis was seated on one side of the desk with Jiraiya by his side while Tsunade and Shizune sat on the other side. Tsunade held her hand to her chin considering what Otis was proposing.
"And that's our proposal. It's not the greatest idea, but it's the only thing we can come up with."
Jiraiya crossed his arms, "I have to say...I don't hate it. You've got one vote in your favor Otis."
Shizune raised her hand, "I second the idea, this might actually strengthen them in the long run."
"Well Tsunade, what's your verdict?"
The Hokage closed her eyes, thinking it over, "I'll give you an answer tomorrow. I want to think about this for a little..."
Otis nodded, respecting Tsunade's choice, "You've always had my respect as an opponent and friend, I'll accept your answer whatever you decide."
Suddenly the doors burst open as Dagger ran into the room, Otis immediately got to his feet, "Dagger! What's the meaning of this?"
"Master Otis! We've engaged Fenris and won, but the Captain's badly wounded! Maze and the other's are taking him to out base camp at the river."
Otis looked to Tsunade then back to his subordinate, "Tell them I'm on my way. Tsunade, this is Knot business but"
Tsunade was already on her feet, "I'll help in anyway I can. I owe the man that much."
With the help of the students Maze and Steel got the captain back to the campsite. They laid him in a small tent where the medical tenders could take care of him. The two exited the tent to the worried faces of the ninja helpers. Maze flashed the group a thumbs up, "Congratulations, you just killed your first monster. Now why doncha all just head on home, I'm sure you're all late as it is..."
Iruka cleared his throat, "Actually, we're all very concerned for your captain. His wounds look rather serious..."
Maze waved a hand, "Captain don't like people fussing over him, it's better if you just head back. We've got it under control."
"GET YOUR HANDS OFF ME!"
Steel groaned, "Looks like Captain's still fighting the healers."
Maze yelled into the tent, "Hey ya old bastard! Let them work or I'm comin' in there to hold you down!"
Naruto pushed past Steel and ran into the tent, he saw the captain swatting the two healers away from him, "Get out now or I'll throw you out myself!"
Naruto ran to the bedside, grabbing the old man's arm, "Hey! They're just trying to help you! Knock it off, you old fart!"
This elicited a laugh from the captain, the old man rubbing Naruto's head, "Aah, I don't want'em to waste anything on an old coot like me. I think it's time I retired, permanently. I'm too old, hunting beasts' a young man's game."
Naruto's eyes went wide, "You're just giving up! C'mon that wolf didn't hit you that hard!"
The old man ignored the boy's protests, his blood soaking through the blanket over him as he reached to his belt. He unhooked the dagger and held it up, "Ya did good for your first time kid, you've earned it."
Naruto shook his head, "I don't want the stupid knife! You can keep it, just don't"
"Maze, come in here!"
The green haired youth stepped in next to Naruto. He looked to his mentor, "Yes sir?"
"Maze, you're the most promising student I've ever had the pleasure of teaching. Which is why I'm sorry this promotion comes to you so late. I'm promoting you to captain of your group, you've worked hard and you've earned it. Captain."
Maze raised his head, his eyes still on his teacher. He made a fist with his right hand and slapped it to his right shoulder, "Thank you captain, it was an honor working with you."
"Hey! Hey! Don't you change the subject! If you die old man, I'm gonna beat your ass back to life!"
Maze looked to Naruto, "Kid, the captain's been doing this for over 50 years. He's lived a rich full life. Don't take away his dignity in death. I don't want him to go either but if it's what he wants, he's earned that decision."
Naruto looked down for a minute, the green haired warrior was right. He steeled himself then gave the same salute Maze gave the Captain. The Captain smiled as he shakily handed the dagger to Naruto. He took the dagger and offered a small smile. The Captain coughed, "Don't worry son, we'll see each other again. But not for a good while..."
Maze put his hand on Naruto's shoulder, guiding the youth out of the tent. Naruto looked up at Maze's face, how could he be so stone-faced while someone close to him was dying. True, he himself barely knew the old man but that didn't diminish the fact that he cared. It was always the same, even when Haku died he couldn't help but mourn for him and Zabuza too. Death was a part of a ninja's life, but all the same it was something he hated. Naruto was drawn from his angst by the sounds of approaching horses.
The riders he saw earlier that day had just arrived, the leader had Tsunade hanging onto him from behind. They dismounted and ran to the tent. Maze didn't turn or acknowledge them, he stood with his back to the tent. Naruto looked back, he saw Tsunade touch the Captain, then shake her head covering him with the blanket. The Captain had left them...
The next day the sun didn't rise, the sky was a dismal pitch of gray clouds that offered less rain than smoke. The village of Konoha was mourning the loss of the two ninjas lost to the hunger of Fenris. Naruto attended the funeral, despite the fact he barely knew them at all. He was just leaving when Sakura stopped him.
"Naruto, where are you going?"
He turned, "I wanna go pay respect to the Captain. He was a nice guy and I just want to say goodbye."
Sasuke was walking by, but stopped when he heard Naruto. He turned, looking at his teammates, "It's only polite, I guess..."
Naruto spoke up, "You better go see him Sasuke, it's your fault he got hurt in the first place!"
Sasuke tched, "It was an accident, my foot slipped dobe."
Sakura snapped at the two, "It was NOBODY'S FAULT!"
The two boys were silent, staring at the loud girl who only blinked then said, "Let's all go together ok?"
About an hour's journey brought the team to the campsite where the Captain lay. In the light of day they could make out the ships that brought the visitors from afar. The carved dragon heads were hideous, eliciting a cringe from the group but they continued to the large tent. Inside the people were sitting at a make shift table. They were eating, drinking, and talking as if it was a normal meal for the group.
Naruto quickly spotted two familiar faces and bee-lined through the crowd towards the twins. Dagger looked up from her tankard, a bit surprised to see them, "What brings you three here?"
Sakura looked around at the casually dressed party, they were still clad in all black from the funeral in their village. They must have looked extremely out of place here, "We uh...came to pay our respects to your Captain?"
Naruto looked around, "A guy just died and you're throwing him a party? You westerners are WEIRDOES!"
Steel gulped down some of his tankard, "This is the wake actually, the funeral takes place in an hour after everyone's settled. C'mon'n join us! The Captain wouldn't want us crying over him, so we're gonna get wasted in his memory."
Dagger pushed her half drunk brother aside, "It's really not in our nature to display emotions like sadness, so most of our people equate sadness with drunkeness. The more wasted you are the sadder you feel supposedly, my brother just uses this as an excuse to indulge himself. Right, lush?"
Steel answered his sister by pouring himself another round. She sighed as she shook her head in resignation. Sasuke noticed at the head of the table sat the same big guy who rode up with Tsunade the other day. In fact Tsunade and Jiraiya were sitting with him. Dagger looked to where Sasuke was looking, "Oh, that's our leader, Master Armsman Otis Aurelias Bakanetsu. I think he's extra drunk because the Captain was his cousin...A terrible loss indeed, he was a good man. A very good man."
Sasuke shook his head, this didn't concern him. It wasn't as if he knew the guy that well, it was true that if the Captain didn't fight the wolf he probably would have been killed but that's beside the point. It wasn't his friggin' fault, he slipped! It was an accident, pure and simple! Then why was he here? He looked up and almost jumped when he saw the golden lion-esque eyes of Maze staring back into his own. How long was Maze standing there before he noticed? And how long was he going to stare into his eyes before he went away. Something about the intensity in those eyes made him shudder.
Fortunately, Maze got tired of glaring down at the ninja and moved off on his own. Naruto scratched his head, "What wassat about? You piss him off or something?"
Tsunade sat next to Otis, pounding back a tankard with the man. She would definately consider trading something with Green Knot for learning how to make this beer. It tasted better than sake and worked even faster. She looked to Otis and put a hand on his shoulder, "I'm sorry Otis, I know he was your cousin and he was a hell of a fighter too..."
Otis wiped his mouth, "I think he planned this to be his last. His kids're grown up with families of their own. There was talk in the council of retiring him from teaching. And old warriors like me don't take too well to retirement."
Jiraiya swallowed some roast he was eating, "I hear that, if I ever get that old, I'll probably arrange for a fight to die in..."
Otis let out a loud laugh, "Yea right, you'll go to the most expensive brothel you can find rent all the hookers and die of a heart attack so you won't have to pay!"
This brought a big laugh from Tsunade, who slapped Otis on the back. She shook her head, Jiraiya looked like he wanted to punch Otis in the face. Maze made his way over to Otis, stepping over various people in his path.
"Boy! Over here!" Otis waves the green haired youth over. "Tsunade, have you met my son Maze yet?"
Tsunade looked over Maze, "This is yours? I should have figured, I can see where he gets his good looks!"
Maze looked at Tsunade like she was crazy, "Lady, you better take that back or I won't hesitate to beat the difference into you."
Tsunade, Otis, and Jiraiya burst out laughing at Maze. He stood there looking pissed in general, he hated his father and now was pretty sure he hated his dad's friends as well. Otis wiped a tear from his eye as he finished laughing, "Anyway son, now that you've been promoted and all, I've got your first assignment..."
A little later, all the warriors had gathered outside by the boats, beside the larger boats was a smaller one. A procession carried the cloth wrapped figure of the Captain on board. Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura stood beside Dagger, Maze, and Vulvine on the shore. Vulvine was supporting a very drunk Steel who was barely coheirant enough to hold his head up. Naruto whispered to Dagger, "(What's up with the boat?)"
"That boat is going to be the captain's send off to the Warrior's Heaven."
Naruto scratched his head, didn't they just bury their dead like normal people? Westerners are weird. He noticed an older woman in a lond black dress standing before the boat. She raised her hands and spoke out in a foreign tongue.
"She's saying the Warrior's Prayer. Low there on the bloody field, though my body is torn and broken. I fear no evil, for I have seen my forefathers. They bid me join them and take my place amoung the brave. In the halls of valour where I shall now dwell forever."
The woman takes a cup from a man, drinking from it before stepping on board the ship and lying beside the captain. Naruto blinked, turning back to Dagger for an explanation.
"That's the Captain's wife, the potion she just drank will put her in a deep sleep. She's going to follow him into the afterlife."
Sakura looked a bit shocked, "Sh-she's letting them"
Maze put a hand on Sakura's shoulder, "She's very old, her children have grown and gone to start their own lives. Without the Captain she has nothing in this world to stay for, let her go."
The group watched as men with torches lit the boat afire and launched the ship, letting it float on the current as it burned. Naruto held the dagger from the captain close to his side, squeezing the hilt as the Captain and his wife left for that warriors heaven. He wondered if he would be allowed into such a place when he died. Were the Kages of previous generations there? Did Haku and Zabuza go there? His mind drifting on the currents, his heart going out to the stranger who fought for a village not his own.
Maze's eyes travelled with the ship, sending his fondest farewell with the man who taught him the deadly trade of monster slaying. He was a captain now and a man in the eyes of the village. Barely even through his first day and he already had an assignment to carry out. He looked to the three ninjas in his presence, he decided he had to start as soon as possible. His father was very clear about what had to be done. And he was ready to carry out his first appointed task, even with that all to familiar voice niggling him in the back of his mind. Nothing would sway him from his duty...
To Be Continued...
What task did Otis give Maze? Does Maze harbor hate towards Sasuke for the accident? Will Naruto ever understand foreigners? Find out in our next thrilling installment: Without a Trace
